Here are the top-tier Vermont resorts expected to deliver unforgettable experiences in 2025, broken down by what they do best.
1. The Beast of the East: Killington Resort
Killington earns its nickname, the "Beast of the East," by being the largest ski area in the eastern United States, covering over 1,500 skiable acres across six interconnected mountains.
- Best For: Intermediate/Advanced Skiers and Vibrant Après-Ski/Nightlife.
- What's New for 2025: Killington is known for its continual investment in snowmaking and lift infrastructure, ensuring it remains one of the first resorts to open and one of the last to close (often extending into late May or even June). Its massive trail count ensures you'll rarely ski the same run twice, making it ideal for a week-long trip.
- The Vibe: High-energy, big-mountain feel with an access road loaded with bars, restaurants, and entertainment, perfect for those who want a lively scene after the lifts close. Killington's Pico Mountain offers a quieter, family-friendly alternative on the same pass.
2. The Powder Paradise: Jay Peak Resort
Tucked away in the northern reaches of Vermont, Jay Peak benefits from the "Jay Cloud," which consistently dumps the most natural snow in the East. This resort is a mandatory pilgrimage for powder hounds.
- Best For: Expert Glade Skiing and Deep Natural Snow.
- What's New for 2025: Jay's legendary glades and liberal in-bounds policy allow skiers to find fresh powder long after a storm. The resort is also highly popular with families due to its world-class indoor water park, making it a perfect destination for mixed groups where not everyone skis all day.
- The Vibe: Laid-back, remote, and focused purely on snow quality. While the mountain can be a drive, the reward is often uncrowded slopes and unparalleled tree skiing.
3. The Classic Luxury: Stowe Mountain Resort
Stowe is the quintessential Vermont ski experience, blending challenging terrain with upscale amenities in one of America's most celebrated small towns. Set beneath Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, it offers a dramatic backdrop.
- Best For: Expert Skiers and Upscale Village Atmosphere.
- Must-Ski Terrain: The legendary "Front Four" (Starr, Goat, National, and Liftline) are steep, mogul-filled testaments to East Coast skiing.
- The Vibe: World-class and sophisticated. With the inclusion of Stowe on the Epic Pass, lift accessibility is top-notch, connecting the classic Mt. Mansfield side with the newer, well-appointed Spruce Peak base area, which features luxury lodging, shopping, and dining.
4. The Family Favorites: Okemo & Smugglers' Notch
For families prioritizing high-quality grooming, excellent ski schools, and all-inclusive convenience, these two resorts stand out:
Okemo Mountain Resort
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Best For: Beginners/Intermediates and Grooming Quality. Okemo is famous for having some of the fastest lifts and best-groomed snow surfaces in the region, ideal for building confidence. Its Southern Vermont location also makes it one of the most accessible major resorts from Boston and New York City.
Smugglers' Notch Resort
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Best For: All-Around Family Excellence and Glade Terrain. Widely recognized as one of the most family-friendly resorts in the country, "Smuggs" is praised for its comprehensive children's programs, secluded village, and dedicated learning areas. For experts, it also boasts some of the most challenging tree skiing in the East.
5. The Skier's Mountain: Sugarbush Resort & Mad River Glen
Located in the Mad River Valley, these neighboring resorts offer a purer, more authentic Vermont experience, often drawing a more dedicated skiing crowd.
Sugarbush Resort
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Best For: Diverse Terrain and "Western" Feel in the East. Spanning two mountains, Lincoln Peak and Mt. Ellen, Sugarbush features nearly 600 skiable acres plus access to vast backcountry areas. The terrain is expansive and varied, ranging from gentle groomers to the extreme steeps of the Castle Rock area.
Mad River Glen
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Best For: Extreme Experts and Classic Skiing Nostalgia. This legendary mountain is one of the last in the U.S. to forbid snowboarding and still operates a single-chair lift. Known for its challenging, natural terrain, and lack of extensive snowmaking, it's run by a co-op and lives by the motto: "Ski It If You Can."
